Can ancient Roman grape varieties still be found in French wines today?

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Ancient Roman Grape Varieties Persist in Modern French Wines

Analysis of ancient grape pips has revealed that grape varieties first introduced to France by the Romans remain in use today, forming the basis of wines from celebrated appellations. Researchers successfully cross-referenced the DNA of 28 grape pips, some dating back 2,500 years, with a database of modern varieties. This study provides concrete evidence of the continuous cultivation of specific grape lineages for centuries, directly linking ancient viticulture to contemporary French winemaking.
Persistent Grape Lineages Identified

Scientific investigation into grape pips unearthed at nine archaeological sites across France has demonstrated the remarkable longevity of certain grape varieties. The genomes of these ancient pips were analysed and compared to modern grape DNA. This allowed researchers to identify distinct grape varieties that have been cultivated continuously for significant periods, with one notable example showing a lineage of at least 900 years.
Savignan: A Case of Ancient Continuity

A key discovery was the identification of savignan, a white grape variety dated to 1100 CE. This grape is still cultivated today and is integral to the production of the Jura region's distinctive vin jaune. The persistence of savignan for at least 900 years highlights the practice of maintaining and propagating specific grapevines, ensuring their genetic identity is passed down through generations.
Roman Grape Connections to Modern Varieties

The research further established that savignan is the progenitor variety for over two dozen modern white grapes, including well-known names like gruner veltliner, chenin, riesling, and petit manseng. Additionally, humagne blanche, a white grape currently grown in the Swiss Alps, was found to be directly related to grapes cultivated in southern France during the Roman era, supporting historical accounts of vine introduction to the region. Even iconic grapes such as chardonnay and pinot noir showed near-identical genetic profiles to Roman-era varieties.

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Can ancient Roman grape varieties still be found in French wines today?

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